Ashleigh Plumptre excited to be back in action for Al-Ittihad

By Oyediji Oluwaseun Babatunde

After nearly six months on the sidelines due to injury, defender Ashleigh Plumptre made her highly anticipated return to action with her Saudi Arabian club, Al-Ittihad, this week.

The former Leicester City FC defender, who underwent surgery in April to repair a right leg injury, was forced to sit out both club and international duties during her recovery.

Plumptre, who played a crucial role in Nigeria’s qualification for the 2023 Women’s World Cup and the Super Falcons’ push to return to the Olympics, was unable to participate in the team’s recent campaign, marking a significant setback for both club and country.

The 25-year-old defender was introduced in the second half of Al-Ittihad’s 1-0 victory over Al Ula, marking her first appearance since the surgery.

The win was Al-Ittihad’s second of the season, bringing them to fifth place in the 10-team Saudi Women’s Premier League with six points from three games.

“Hey, Etihad fans! I’m so happy to be back. Even happier with the win and the clean sheet. Thanks for all your support,” Plumptre said in a heartfelt video shared on her Instagram.

Her return is a major boost for both her club and the Nigerian national team, as they look ahead to the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) next year in Morocco, where Nigeria will aim to reclaim the continental title.

With Plumptre back in action, both Al-Ittihad and the Super Falcons can now count on her experience and leadership as they push forward in their respective campaigns.